The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission London for Nationals and Friends of Antigua and Barbuda Issue 146

November/ The Antigua and Barbuda December 2011 High Commission Official Newsletter

A newsletter produced by the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission London for nationals and friends of Antigua and Barbuda Issue 146

Most importantly, the Christ- 2011 was a year of challenges. mas story admonishes us to As a country we continue to be of service to others – be deal with the fallout from the “Each compassionate to all and to global economic crisis and treat others, as we would de- other incidents that have im- sire to be treated. pacted our economy negative- Endeavour- ly. ing all Christmas is a time for family. I welcome all Antiguans and The Government, working Achieving” Barbudans who have returned hand in hand with the people, home to celebrate the season will continue to respond bold- Prime Minister and to visit relatives and ly to the many economic chal- Dr. The Hon. W. Baldwin friends. There are also many lenges that confront our na- Spencer visitors to our shores, who tion. We will continue to Christmas Message might be experiencing their count on the support of you first Antiguan and Barbudan the people of this country as

My fellow Antiguans and Bar- Christmas. I wish them peace we look forward to the work National Heroes budans, residents and friends, and happiness that this sea- ahead in the coming New once again it is the season of son brings. I extend special Year. Day peace, joy and goodwill. It is a Christmas greetings to those individuals who provide ser- It is my hope, that during this 9th December season of celebration. At this time we celebrate the entry vices to our nation at this period of peace and goodwill, Inside This time, while we enjoy the com- that we will all commit our- into the world of our Lord Je- Issue: sus Christ, whose simple birth pany of family and friends. selves to developing a culture of service to others. May we is a lesson in humility to all of H E Dr Carl B W us. The story of Jesus Special tribute is paid to our think first of the needs of Roberts at IOM and 4, changed the world and that is law enforcement officers and those who are less fortunate WTO meetings, 5 members of the military and than we are. In that way, we Geneva why we celebrate his birth every year around this time. security forces. Special com- will truly be reflecting the Sir James “Bags” 6 mendation and wishes of spirit of Christmas. Thomas Official peace and great joy are also Funderal It is a story that has transformed most of our lives, fill- extended to our doctors, nurs- My wife Jackie; daughter J’nai, ing our hearts with joy and es, emergency medical person Juno and my entire family, Nation Celebrates 7 inspiring us to do good. This sonnel, fire officers and those join me in sending good wish- its heroes Christmas story has propelled who care for the elderly, the es to you the citizens, resi- us to love each other more, less fortunate and our special dents and friends of Antigua serve others and to help the young ones. It is my hope that and Barbuda. New Inland Reve- 8 the joys and good cheer that nue Office less fortunate in our society. It is that time when we are the celebration of Christ’s Let us all thank God for his called upon to be closer with birth brings will be yours this love, protection and guidance Barbuda K-Club to 9 Christmas. throughout 2011 and for giv- be sold our families and to give thanks for His blessings. ing us His Son; who is the Sav- Even as we partake in the fes- iour of the World. I wish Night Landing at The story of Jesus’ birth also tivities, food and fellowship, God’s richest blessing on each Codrington Air- 13 this is also a time for quiet and every one of you during port reminds us to have faith in humanity – believing that we sober reflection. As we ap- this Holy and Happy Season. A Antigua Footballers 16 all have some good within us. proach the end of the year, I Merry Christmas to one and qualify for FIFA think we can all agree that all. World Cup

Antigua and Barbuda High Commission, 2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP 2 High Commissioner’s Christmas and New Year Message

Last Christmas, I took the opportunity to speak to you about the importance of remembering the elderly, the poor, and the less fortunate, especially in light of the adverse weather we all faced during the festive season. This year, I would like to move away from focusing only on Christmas/New Year’s and the par- ties and celebrations many of us will participate in, and focus on the reason for the holidays, something which many often forget to consider.

Although Christmas now seems to be more associated with Santa Claus and turkey dinners, let us not forget the true reason for the celebrations - the birth of our Lord and Saviour. Similarly, the New Year has become more associated with drink- ing than on reflection of the year past – the blessings we have received - and preparation for the year to come.

There are many other such disassociations in the holidays of our Nation. The 1st of May was once celebrated as a day recog- nising the achievements of the labour movement. It has moved to the first Monday in May in some countries while in others it is celebrated on a day later in the year. For example, in the USA, in 1884 the American Federation of Organized Trade and Labor Unions demanded an eight-hour workday to come into effect as of May 1, 1886. This resulted in the general strike and the Haymarket Riot of 1886, but eventually also in the official sanction of the eight-hour workday so many of us experience today.

Unfortunately many other activities have crept into the commemoration of this date. Some of these are exemplary as is the case in Jamaica where, following the clash of Trade Unions in 1972, Jamaican Prime Minister Michael Manley promoted Labour Day as a showcase for the importance of labour to the development of Jamaica, and a day of voluntary community participation to beneficial projects. Since then, Labour Day has been not only a public holiday but also a day of mass community involvement around the country. In other locations other activities have become so divisive as to detract from the celebration of the labour movement and the unity of the fight for the benefit of the working person.

The 1st of August is now known more as a time to dance through the streets in little clothing, than a time to celebrate our emancipation from slavery. The Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 ended slavery in the British Empire on the 1st August 1834. This day become the date when all former slaves were emancipated and has since been com- memorated in many countries with much pride. While we celebrate our Carnival in Antigua and Barbuda, let us also include something to remind us of the origins of the event. The freeing of our ancestors from the chains of ownership of the slave masters, along with the recognition of those who fought to begin the process towards freedom or rebel against those who opposed their freedom should be uppermost in our minds. Let us remember those like King Court, at this time with programmes on the radio and television. The theme should always be – “Lest we forget”. Slavery comes in many forms and may not always appear in its physical form.

The first of November is the day we celebrate the independence of our nation. It means we have become of age and are on our own. Yet the focus of the Food Fair and the Youth Rally seem to take prominence over the prize of the day; that is being masters of our own destiny. Let there be in our hearts a sense of national pride and a will- ingness to do our utmost to make our countrymen and countrywomen stand with pride. “Raise the standard and raise it boldly, answer now to duty’s call, to the service of your country, sparing nothing, giving all. Gird your loins and join the battle against fear, hate and poverty, each endeavouring, all achieving, live in peace where man is free”. At this time of year, I ask you not to forget the reason for the season, or for any of our holidays. I trust that your Christmas was happy and I take this opportunity to wish a Blessed and Prosperous New Year to one and all. 3

Address by His Excellency population of 110 thousand citi- Antigua and Barbuda has received Dr Carl B W Roberts, Am- zens of many racial and religious immigrants from much further th origins living peacefully together afield. bassador at the 100 Ses- makes it the ideal place to experi- sion of the Council of In- ence the warmth of the Caribbean. Membership allows Antigua and ternational Organization This year we too celebrated a sig- Barbuda, with the assistance of the nificant milestone with 30 years of various offices within the IOM, to for Migration build up its capacity to handle United Nations, Palace des Na- movement of migrants into and tions, Geneva—5th December 2011, out of the country, to draw upon the research conducted by the IOM in tackling several of the develop- “Director General Ambassador mental issues we face. This is need- Lacy, members and delegates of ed in the prevailing financial crisis the Council, it is an honour for me and downturn in national econo- to stand before this meeting of the mies around the world. 100th Session of the Council of this august body. It is also important High on the list, and in keeping for a number of reasons especially with the strategic focus of the or- as it gives me, as the representa- Seen above from left to right: H E Mr Strohal, ganisation, Antigua and Barbuda tive of my beloved country, the Chairman of the 100th Session of IOM, H E Dr looks forward to further enhancing opportunity to be present on the Carl B W, Roberts, Ambassador Mr William its developmental policy particular- occasion when the Small Develop- Lacy Swing , Director General of IOM ly in advance of the free movement ing Island State of Antigua and of Caribbean Nationals with the Barbuda becomes one of the new- sub-group of the Organisation of est members of the International Independence and by that you will Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Organisation for Migration. immediately acknowledge that we and the Caribbean Community are a young progressive country. (Caricom). It is also significant for us to have our request for membership ap- The composition of the population On behalf of the Government and proved during the celebration of has clearly demonstrated the open- people of Antigua and Barbuda, I the 60th Anniversary of this organi- ness of our society and it is to be thank you for your kind considera- sation. Antigua and Barbuda is sit- noted that the country has become tion in admitting us into member- uated in the Caribbean and be- home, temporarily or permanently, ship of the IOM and assure you of came a fully-fledged sovereign to migrants from many countries. our highest regard”. state on the 1st November 1981. It In fact apart from many the cus- is a country of 365 white sandy tomary influx of citizens of our * * * * * * beaches and idyllic climate. Its neighbouring Caribbean countries,

Hornsey Moravian Choir count they would like to see an- goes to Leicester other one organised in time to come.

Message from Once again thank you very much Mr Brillheart James, for finding time, in spite of your busy schedule, to participate in President, Barbuda such an event. Regards to your Association Leicester lovely wife from Leontine and my self. Hornsey Moravian Choir Shown above My colleagues and I would like to 20th November 2011 thank His Excellency Dr Carl Rob- erts and the Hornsey Moravian appreciation to all the choir mem- * * * * * * Choir for the excellent perfor- bers as well as to their families mance at our concert on Sunday who accompanied them. Feedback 20th November 2011. You did an from those attended has been excellent job. Please convey our very positive and from their ac-

4 ANTIGUA AND humanitarian assistance to migrants various offices within the IOM, to BARBUDA JOINS THE IOM in need, be they refugees, displaced build up its capacity to handle persons or other uprooted peoples. movement of migrants into and out

of the country, to draw upon the Antigua and Barbuda’s HE Dr Carl research conducted by the IOM in Roberts represented the State of tackling several of the developmen- Antigua and Barbuda at the 100th tal issues we face. This is needed in Session of the Council of the Inter- the prevailing financial crisis and national Organisation for Migration downturn in national economies (IOM), where the country was for- around the world. mally admitted as a member. The ceremony took place earlier this High on the list, and in keeping with month at the Palais des Nations in the strategic focus of the organisa- Geneva, Switzerland where Antigua tion, Antigua and Barbuda looks for- and Barbuda was among ten other H E Dr Carl B W Roberts above at the IOM ward to further enhancing its devel- countries admitted thus increasing Meeting Geneva opmental policy particularly in ad- the membership of the organisation vance of the free movement of Car- to 146. The IOM works in four broad areas ibbean Nationals within the sub-

of migration management: migra- group of the Organisation of Eastern The IOM was established in 1951 tion and development, facilitating Caribbean States (OECS) and the and is dedicated to promoting hu- migration, regulating migration and Caribbean Community (Caricom).” mane and orderly migration for the addressing forced migration. benefit of all. IOM also works to In response to the Chairman’s wel- For further information on the Anti- promote international cooperation come, HE Dr Roberts remarked: gua and Barbuda High Commission on migration issues, to assist in the “Membership allows Antigua and contact +44(0)2072580070 or visit search for practical solutions to mi- Barbuda, with the assistance of the www.antigua-barbuda.com gration problems and to provide

Ministry of Agriculture, IICA IICA Dr Victor Villalobos and Minis- Agriculture participants agreed that Collaborate To Increase Small ter of Agriculture, Lands, Housing & emphasis should be placed on pro- Ruminant Production the Environment Hilson Baptiste, duction of forage, housing and who pledged his commitment to management of flocks. Posted On: November 21, 2011 support the development of the

sector in five critical areas. As part of the assessment process, several farms were examined. A Among the areas listed were build- visit was also made to the Titan ing technical capacity at the Master Group of Companies where IICA is & PhD levels through scholarships; currently conducting a Biodigester Two representatives from the Inter- access to germplasm for roots and Pilot Project. Gordon explained American Institute for Co-operation tubers, sweet potato and cassava that when the system would have on Agriculture (IICA) visited Antigua and white potato; genetic improve- been fully installed it would be used to conduct an assessment as part of ment of small ruminants; enhance- as a training tool for other farmers. an agreement to assist the Ministry ment of communication between Gordon explained that of Agriculture in improving the ge- IICA and the ministry; and develop- “Biodigesters can play a pivotal role netics of small ruminants. ment proposals for improvement of in integrated farming systems by technology to enhance communica- reducing health risks, facilitating Dr Manuel David Sanchez Hermosil- tion exchanges. control of pollution and at the same lo, representative for Dominican time adding value to livestock ex- Republic and Una May Gordon, rep- The IICA officials met with Chief creta through production of biogas resentative for Eastern Caribbean, Veterinary and Livestock Officer Dr and improved nutrient status of the conducted an assessment to derive Oona Edwards, Deputy Director effluent as fertilizer for ponds and ways in which Antigua and Barbuda Astley Joseph and other technical crop land.” could develop specific proposals to officers to hammer out areas of increase the production of sheep focus under the programme for ge- The team is expected to present a and goats. netic improvements of small rumi- report on the findings and the way This assessment stemmed from an nants. forward at the end of the assess- agreement reached earlier this year ment. between the Director General of At the meeting at the Ministry of * * * * * * 5

ANTIGUA AND BAR- HE Mr Colin Murdoch, as Head ence of the unresolved issue BUDA AT THE 8TH of Delegation, addressed the which exists between Antigua WTO MINISTERIAL Ministerial Conference on the and Barbuda and the USA and 17th December on behalf of An- called upon the WTO Secretari- CONFERENCE tigua and Barbuda and highlight- at to be more proactive in ad- ed the plight of Small and Vul- dressing imbalance in the Dis- The eight Ministerial Confer- nerable Economies (SVE) and pute Resolution system particu- ence of the World Trade Or- larly when small member states ganisation (WTO) was held in come up against larger members Geneva, Switzerland from the in trade disputes. 15th to 17th December 2011. An- tigua and Barbuda was repre- The Conference took up the sented by a three-member dele- accession of Russia, Samoa and gation comprising HE Mr Colin Montenegro and adopted a Murdoch, Permanent Secretary, number of resolutions in the Division of Trade, Industry and final session. A number of OECS Commerce Antigua and Barbu- Member States were also pre- da, HE Dr Carl B Roberts, High sent at the Conference and met Commissioner to the Court of H E Dr Carl B W Roberts and H E Mr Colin before, as well as during, the St. James’s and Deputy Perma- Murdoch representing Antigua and Barbuda at Conference to coordinate their nent Representative of Antigua the WTO Ministerial Meeting Geneva presentations. and Barbuda to the WTO, and Ms Sharon James, Trade Com- Small Island States (SIDS) under missioner, Division of Trade, which classifications Antigua and * * * * * * Industry and Commerce Antigua Barbuda falls. Ambassador Mur- and Barbuda. doch also reminded the confer-

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6 Sir James “Bags” Thomas Prime Minster (Ag) Hon. Harold Lov- given a three (3) volley gun salute ell; Hon. Gaston Browne; the Commu- and his last remains were interred nity Players; the children and grand- in the Greenbay Moravian Church- children of Sir James and the Green- yard Cemetery. bay Moravian Choir and Men’s Fel- lowship. The eulogy was read by Dr. Sir James was High Commissioner Patrick Lewis and the sermon to the Court of St James’s in the UK preached by Reverend Joseph Nicho- and also served as Ambassador Ex- las. traordinary and Plenipotentiary for Antigua and Barbuda to the Peo- The last remains of Sir James was ple’s Republic of China, Venezuela, available for public viewing at Russian Federation, OECS, ACS, Straffie’s Funeral Home from on the UNESCO and CARICOM. morning of the funeral after which the cortege proceeded to Spring Gar- He became Dean of the Caribbean dens Moravian Church. The Service of Diplomatic Corps in London from Thanksgiving began at 12:00 noon. 1987 to 1995. The official funeral of the late Sir

James “Bags” Thomas was held on Flags were flown at half mast To the Family and Friends of the Friday 2nd December 2011 at the throughout the State and at over- late Sir James “Bags” Thomas we Spring Gardens Moravian Church. seas Missions on the day of the fu- extend our deep condolences for Among those giving tributes were neral. Sir James “Bags” Thomas was your loss.

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA MAKING and participants. The role of the BIE is experts and civil society a unique WAVES ON THE WORLD STAGE to supervise and ensure the applica- dialogue platform, as well as offering tion of this Convention. The Admin- a venue to respond to pressing glob- Antigua and Barbuda’s HE Dr. istration and Budget Committee over- al issues whilst also strengthening Carl Roberts was recently elected as sees the budget of the BIE and is re- the relationship between regions. the President of the Administration sponsible for the financial activities of and Budget Committee, one of the the organisation. The BIE next expos are due four committees for the Bureau of In- to take place in Yeosu in 2012 and ternational Expositions (BIE) on the The first Expo took place in Milan in 2015. 150th session of the General Assembly London in 1852, from that the BIE held in Paris. was founded in 1928 in Paris and For further information on since then this intergovernmental the Antigua and Barbuda High Com- The BIE was created by an in- organisation has been representing mission contact +44(0)20 7258 0070 ternational Convention in Paris, France the international community in the or visit www.antigua-barbuda.com in 1928, which established the rights domain of Universal Exhibitions. The

and responsibilities of Expo organisers World Expos strive to offer States,

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA RECEIVE ACCO- panel after several unannounced vis- The Ben TV Diplomatic LADES its to the twin island destination on Award’s recognises and celebrates customer service, display of promo- the diplomatic achievements made The recent Third Ben TV Dip- tional materials, easy access to the within the African, Caribbean, Asia lomatic Awards 2011 saw the Antigua mission’s services, easy accessibility and Pacific missions in the UK. and Barbuda High Commission, Dr. and navigation on their website, cul- Carl Roberts, receive two awards in tural and economic diplomacy, the category of ‘Most Positive Projec- how easy is it to get a visa and For further information on tion of a Country’s Image Abroad’ and passport and how easy is it to es- the Antigua and Barbuda High Com- for ‘Economic and Cultural Diploma- tablish a business in their country. mission contact +44(0)2072580070 cy’. Antigua and Barbuda’s High The panel was also impressed or visit www.antigua- Commission won these sought after barbuda.com with the destination’s stand at this awards by impressing the judging year’s World Travel Market. 7 Nation celebrates its heroes surviving one, Sir Vivian Richards. expunging the criminal convictions of slave rebellion leader King As the nation celebrated Former Ambassador Lionel Court, also known as Prince Klass, the life and accomplishments of Max Hurst spoke on the accom- and others with him who were the men and women who made plishments of the former premier executed for the uprising 275 sterling contributions to the twin and father of the nation Sir Vere years ago. island state for yet another year, Cornwall Bird Sr. Senator David Antiguans and Barbudans were Massiah made a presentation on Spencer said he wanted to called upon to use National Heroes the life of Sir George Walter. Jun- do the same for the 13 Antiguans Day as an opportunity to reflect on ior Prosper spoke about King involved in a far more recent the sacrifices and contributions Court. TOR Memorial School Prin- struggle. made by the national heroes. cipal Hyacinth Matthew did a presentation on Dame Nellie Rob- Following the service The annual commemora- inson while Fitzroy Brann gave re- there were wreath-laying ceremo- tion began with a church service at marks on Sir Vivian. nies at the Public Cemetery for the Ebenezer Methodist Church at Dame Nellie Robinson, the Prince 8 am. Citations were read to the Prime Minister Baldwin Klass Monument, the Sir VC Bird accomplishments and distinctions Spencer brought the curtains Bust and Heroes Park. of the country’s four deceased down with closing remarks. Spen- national heroes as well as the only cer re-iterated his commitment to

From being relatively unknown to turn to her place of birth St Kitts many millions of people in the UK, after 1918. The Le Blancs are a Arthur took the leading role in family who make an important working to make Olaudah Equiano contribution to Antigua.

become a household figure. He and Sam King MBE (the first black Arthur is now working on a new Mayor of the London Borough of project, EQUIANO in EUROPE, Southwark) founded The Equiano which will see Equiano featured as Society in 1996, and by 9 February a key figure in Britain, The Nether- ARTHUR TORRINGTON CBE 2009, the name of Equiano (also lands, Germany and Russia, high- In January 2011 in the Queen’s known as Gustavus Vassa, for most lighting The Interesting Narrative New Year’s honour’s list Arthur of his life) was enshrined on a which was published in English, Torrington received a CBE plaque in St Margaret’s Church, Dutch (1790), Germany (1792), and (Commander of the Order of the Westminster Abbey, where he was Russian (1794). British Empire) medal from Her baptised two hundred and fifty Royal Highness for outstanding years before. The Equiano Society also publicises service to the community, especial- the life and times of Ignatius San- ly for his work in conserving the Equiano, a seaman at the time, cho and Ottobah Cugoano (Black memory and writings of Olaudah often visited Antigua in the 1760s, Britons) who made significant con- Equiano. but he was enslaved to Robert tributions to African literary and King, a plantation owner who lived cultural heritage. Equiano was a former enslaved in Montserrat. Equiano bought his African, able seaman, war-veteran freedom in 1766 for £40. (Royal Navy), businessman, explor- Arthur received an OBE in 2002 for er, writer, and an abolitionist who Arthur’s great-grandmother Mary his service community relations lived in 18-century England. He Peters migrated to Antigua from St and to Windrush Foundation, a published an autobiography titled Kitts in the 1920s with her daugh- charity that publicises the history The Interesting Narrative in March ter Florence and her husband, Mr and heritage of African Caribbean 1789; it was a best seller, and went Le Blanc, a policeman from Domini- men and women who settled in the into nine editions to 1794. He ca. But, Mary had first migrated to UK after WWII, and who laid the worked alongside other abolition- British Guiana at the age of 21 in foundation here for other mi- ists including Granville Sharpe, the late 1800s where Florence and grants. Windrush Foundation also Thomas Clarkson, and William Wil- her older sister Celestina were promotes good race and communi- berforce. born. The latter remained in British ty relations. Guiana when Mary decided to re- * * * * * *

Royal Visit to Antigua his wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex The Diamond Jubilee of Queen Eliz- will tour the Caribbean, visiting Anti- abeth II is the forthcoming interna- Antigua and Barbuda is set to gua and Barbuda, Barbados, Grena- tional celebration in 2012 marking receive a visit from a member of the da, Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis, St the 60th anniversary of her acces- Royal family as part of a global tour Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines sion to the thrones of seven coun- celebrating the Queen’s Diamond and Trinidad and Tobago. tries, on the death of her father, Jubilee. King George VI, on 6 February According to a Buckingham 1952. Senior royals will visit the Palace spokesperson, the details and Queen's 15 realms - nations where timings of the visits are still under Queen Victoria in 1897 is so far the the sovereign is head of state - major discussion with the host govern- only other monarch in British histo- Commonwealth countries, and other ments. ry to have celebrated a Diamond destinations with close links to the Jubilee. UK next year. The tour is scheduled for the first half of 2012. 15th December 2011 * * * * * * Prince Edward, The Earl and

Valuation on Half Moon Bay was damaged by Hurricane Luis in and shareholders will have to review nearly doubled 1995. the ruling of the Appeals Court. by court ruling Attorney General Justin Si- “Given the interest that has mon said he is surprised and very accrued on the US $45.5 million, it Government now has to pay disappointed at the Supreme Court’s has taken us over the US $60 million almost double what an earlier valua- decision. (mark). Actually it is at US $65.7 mil- tion board had recommended as fair lion at this point. So yes, the wait is compensation for the Half Moon Bay “I am not able to say what painful and wasteful but the figures (HMB) property. the rationale of the court was be- are going to grow and continue to cause I have not yet received a copy grow. So it is likely we will accept The Eastern Caribbean Su- of the decision,” Simon said. “In fact, this decision without taking it further preme Court ruled that reimburse- my information from counsel who but I am not guaranteeing anything ment should be US $45.5 million and held papers for me was that the at this point,” Querard said. not US $23 million as put forward in written decision was not ready and 2007 by a government-appointed we would be getting it in a few days. Querard has in the past ac- Valuations Board. So when I get the decision I will then cused the government of using de- assess what the government’s next laying tactics to avoid paying the HMB Holdings, which owned step would be in that matter.” sums owed and she said it is now up the property, has been locked in a to government to take action. legal battle with government since Managing Director of HMB 1998 after the state seized the re- Holdings Natalia Querard said board * * * * * * sort. It has been lying derelict since it

Renovated Building To Be ing the Budget Debate, that the vision to insure that the department Handed Over To IRD Shortly newly renovated building will be had adequate facilities. "One of the officially turned over to the govern- major advantages of relocating the ment in shortly. "By the end of Janu- Inland Revenue building and having ary 2012, the Inland Revenue De- a basically new infrastructure there, partment will be occupying that is that the government was able to building" Walker added. install and upgrade the infrastructure in such a way that we are going The Minister said the building was have the latest technology" Walker furnished and retrofitted during the said. renovations. "I am particularly happy because it has been a long road The renovated building that will

The Inland Revenue Department and the Inland Revenue Department house the Inland Revenue Depart- (IRD) will have a new home in just a is a very important institution." the ment is located at Woods Mall. few weeks. Minister of Works, the minister said. Walker adds that he is Hon. Trevor Walker announced dur- proud that the government had the 12th December 2011 * * * * * * 9 Major Road Works John’s city, and some village access In keeping with the Govern- Programme Slated For 2012 roads. ment’s ‘war on waste’ objective, the Ministry of Works will engage skilled The works will improve the contractors and set up monitoring safety, strength and general condi- mechanisms to obtain value for mon- tion of the road network, and ad- ey. dresses the control and disposal of runoff water. In addition, approxi- To ensure the success of this mately two miles of road will be move, the Ministry has placed at the paved in several locations, including top of its list of priorities the devel- McKinnon’s and Cooks Estate by the opment of a Three-Year Strategic Public demand for better end of 2012. Plan which focuses on training and roads has been favourably addressed acquiring skilled personnel. in the 2012 national budget. The Ministry will also complete infrastructural drainage works Under the Plan, at least 100 Approximately $20 million on two major roads, the Sir George persons will benefit from short term will be spent on the national road Walter Highway and Friars Hill Road, job-specific training in the coming works programme. Major mainte- to alleviate longstanding flooding year. nance is slated for a number of main problems. 11th December 2011 roads and arteries leading into St. * * * * * * Sen. Beazer Defends Fisheries project was intended… the artisanal Complex Beazer said that a lot of planning and fisheries project…by the Japanese, to discussion went into the choice of ensure that there is sustainable de- location. “As far as I’m concerned the velopment in the way Barbuda peo- complex is in the best place possible. ple fish.” Massiah said. He said the The stakeholders involved, studied complex was not designed to encour- long and hard. We took the profes- age capital expenses on mega and sional view, we took the layman’s mini trawlers and big fishing boats. view, and we took local knowledge of He added that the complex caters to Barbuda and finally came up with the unique nature of the fishing sec- that particular location. It is serving tor in Barbuda. the people of Barbuda well.” Beaser said. The Artisanal Fisheries Complex was Amidst criticism of the location of officially opened on August 10th the Barbuda Fisheries complex, Sena- The senator added that the complex 2011. tor the Hon. Randolph Beazer is de- was made to assist Barbuda fisher- * * * * * * fending the site. men and not larger entities. “This Barbuda hotels: K-Club to be cated that the property will be sold the services of a local marketing firm sold, Beach House to be re- to a potential investor and they have to market the property as a viable marketed already received interest from a investment. “Hopefully this will number of persons. stimulate enough interest in the

property,” the chairman added. The owners of the K-Club resorts on “In the past the owner of the proper- the sister isle Barbuda have decided ty had indicated interest in re- As it relates to prospects for the New to sell the property after eight years opening the property, but over the Year, the council chairman hopes of closure. Through a recent years she has gotten older and not that a drawdown from the 2011 meeting with owners of both the being able to travel back and forth so budgetary allocation for the council Beach House and K-Club hotels, the it was decided so sell the property as will improve its financial woes. The Barbuda Council has been seeking to a last resort,” Punter said. The coun- council employs close to 75 per cent determine the prospects of the prop- cil is expected to hear more on this of the Barbudan population, and erties as revenue generators for the development in the coming year. Punter said they council will be seek- sister island. ing alternative measures to provide

The Council has also received favora- for these employees. “You have to Chairman of the Council Kelvin Punt- ble response from Laurus Master give people an option, and new er told the Daily OBSERVER that Fund, current owner of the Beach found investment has to be the way Mariuccia Mandelli, owner of the K- House hotel. Punter said as of Janu- to improve the situation,” he said. Club hotel, through her lawyer indi- ary 2011, the company will employ * * * * * *

Dr. Cort Calls For Efficiency in Leader of Government Business in The Leader of Government Business Public Sector the Senate, Dr. the Hon. Errol Cort, in the Senate adds that if downsizing in his opening statement, said he is considered, the re-training of the- supported the proposals outlined in se public officials will be necessary the budget presentation. so that they can be employable in the private sector or elsewhere. “If Cort said that the bulk of collections we were ever to contemplate any coming from indirect taxes should downsizing…before any such thing is be examined in some areas. He add- done, one would have to make en- ed that government must also look sure that all persons who would be at how some officials perform vari- subject to that are properly and ade- ous tasks in the public sector. “We quately retrained to be able to take need to really examine those areas, jobs in the private sector.” Cort add- and then make a determination ulti- ed. mately. If we have a cadre of highly trained competent individuals to do He called on locals to make invest- the job, do we need to have the ments in the country to further gen- numbers that we currently have? All erate revenue in the economy. Debate on the 2012 budget com- of these are rhetorical questions, menced in the Upper House of Par- but questions that would need prop- 20th December 2011 liament on Monday. 19th December er answers.” Cort said. 2011. * * * * * * Government Implements within the public sector. Every minis- been conducted and concrete recom- Public Sector Transformation try has either reengineered multiple mendations made. Strategy business processes or is reviewing current procedures.” He added. A Public Service Bill and Reg-

ulations have been drafted and are Public sector transformation The Public Sector Transfor- being reviewed with a view to having has been identified as a core compo- mation Strategy will address succes- wider stakeholder discussions in the nent of the NEST Plan and remains a sion planning for public sector lead- first quarter of 2012. Additionally priority for the Government to ers. This will help to develop public Draft Public Service Commission Reg- achieve its strategic objectives of in- sector leaders who are qualified and ulations are being prepared and will stitutional strengthening and en- equipped to navigate the difficult be brought before Parliament during hanced service delivery. and often turbulent waters of eco- 2012.

nomic change. Earlier this year, with In this regard a number of assistance from the Commonwealth Functional and efficiency key initiatives within the public sec- Secretariat, Permanent Secretaries reviews have been conducted in the tor transformation action plan have and selected senior public sector Ministries of Foreign Affairs, and been completed, while others are officers participated in a Leadership Works and Transport. The recom- currently being implemented. Development workshop. mendations from these reviews have

been accepted by Government and “We have inherited a public Transformation will include are being implemented in the re- service architecture that is not well job re-classification reform, in which spective ministries. suited for the fast paced environ- regard an exercise is underway to ment in which business is conducted. update and properly document job This year, Antigua and Bar- It is a structure which must be re- descriptions in the service. buda also participated in a region- modelled.” Minister of Finance, Econ- wide collaborative effort with the omy, and Public Administration Hon. A census of employees is Canada School of Public Service, Harold Lovell said. currently being conducted to obtain aimed at designing Caribbean leader-

critical data that can inform policy ship development programmes for “To achieve the overall goal and management decisions. middle and senior level public sector of a transformed and modernised And with the assistance of the Or- managers. It is expected that the first public sector, there are a number of ganisation of American States (OAS), group of Antiguan and Barbudan activities we must complete. Already a review of the legislative framework public sector leaders will begin train- we have made significant strides in governing the public service has ing in 2012 improving operational efficiency 11

Annual Zone III Spellbound held over two encounters in Novem- Ambrose. The best speller in the December 14, 2011 ber. Ten schools participated in this series was Lemuel Richards of Cobbs annual activity which was again Cross School. After a very fierce sponsored by Chefs 2 U Events ltd, competition between the two per- the second year in a row. sons left standing, Lemuel edged out Caryl Schouten of Bendals School. In Encounter I, all schools participated in spelling selected words. In the Chefs 2U representative Charmaine end, three schools with the highest Goveia was on hand to give remarks scores advanced to the finals which and to present winning trophies to were held on 23rd November. the teams. The Ministry of Educa- tion is pleased to be in partnership This year, Freemansville, Cobbs with this company and salutes its Cross, and St. John’s Lutheran quali- effort to further education in Anti- fied in the final round. They will go gua and Barbuda. on to represent the Zone in the na- This highly contested activity was tional championships early next year * * * * * * along with defending champions J.T

Christmas Donation Projects Thursday 15th December 2011, on a President of the Kiwanis Club of St. December 22, 2011 mission to bring Christmas cheer to John’s, Noel Browne, emphasized the children currently housed at the that the Club was grateful for the The Kiwanis Club of St. John’s Anti- institutions. opportunity to do its part in spread- gua visited and made donations to ing joy at this time of the year. The Pediatric Unit at the MSJMC was presented with a food package, The Kiwanis Club of St. John’s Anti- Christmas gifts for the children and gua has a membership of over 30 a fan. Ward Manager, Sis Downer, committed individuals, who believe expressed her gratitude on behalf of that they can make a difference by the Unit, stating that the children fulfilling their motto of “Serving the will definitely enjoy their gifts. Simi- Children of the World”. Individuals larly, Mrs. Charles on behalf of the desirous of giving back to the com- Holberton Hospital Care Project munity through such an organization thanked the Club for their package are encouraged to contact any also consisting of food items and member of the Kiwanis Club of St. both the Mount St. John’s Medical gifts for the Children, and wished John’s Antigua Centre (Paediatric Unit) and the Hol- God’s blessings on the Club. berton Hospital Care Project on * * * * * *

Salvation Army Makes up with a figure because we said this Donation December 21, 2011 is how much it will cost if the army is to do all the work that it has The Salvation Army on Tuesday pre- planned, not just for Christmas but sented approximately 800 food for 2012.”Nichols said. She added packages to the Elderly and less for- that presently the Army is well be- tunate during a program at the low its target and encourages per- Headquarters. sons to continue making donations. Advisory Board Chair, Shawn Nicho- According to Major Rosemarie las, says the Salvation Army is com- Also present at the program was Brown, the annual gesture began in mitted to giving back to the commu- Governor General Dame Louise Lake San Francisco in the 1800’s and is nity. “As an army we are hoping to Tack. She assisted with the distribu- the organization’s way of bringing raise this Christmas 150,000 dollars. tion of the packages to the elderly Christmas cheer to those who may A lot of people might think that that and the less fortunate. not be able to be merry during the is a lot of money, but we didn’t pick season. a number out of that hat, we came * * * * * *

Land Use Policy To Assist Minister of Agriculture the Hon. Hil- ers. Home Owners son Baptiste has underscored the “You have to get the typography of December 15, 2011 need for a land use policy in Antigua the area you’re going to develop and and Barbuda. design the area properly, taking into consideration the land terrain, wet In his contribution to the 2012 Budg- areas, the ponds, dams…design your et debate Baptiste said the Baldwin roads first, before you allocate the Spencer administration has deliber- lands to people” Baptiste said. ately held off on selling government owned land until a land use policy Baptiste outlines some of the diffi- was created. culties home owners have experi- enced due to a lack of planning in He noted that in the past, politicians distributing lands. distributed land without doing the necessary planning which resulted in 15th December 2011 significant disruptions for home own- * * * * * *

New Land Allocations To ment land is being made available to tigua Barbuda Initiative will have an Boost Construct Antigua/ complement the Construct Antigua opportunity to do so. The initiative is Barbuda Initiative and Barbuda Initiative. expected to reduce the cost of resi- dential construction by as much as Speaking on the Good Morning Anti- 20 per cent. gua/Barbuda, Minister of Finance the Hon. Harold Lovell said approxi- The initiative, a collaboration be- mately 600 parcels of land will be tween the government and key play- made available to help boost the ers in the private sector, aims to re- economy through an increase in res- duce home ownership costs by 15 to idential construction. 20 per cent, stimulate economic activity and create employment. Lovell said persons who could not An additional 127 acres of govern- take advantage of the Construct An- 13th December 2011 * * * * * *

World Bank team visits ment received a US$3 million Euro- ment statement explained. Antigua pean Union grant to strengthen its revenue administration and public Government was receiving financial management. That pro- financial assistance from an IMF A World Bank team arrived gramme, to be managed by the Fis- Standby Arrangement, but this was in Antigua to continue preparatory cal Affairs Department of the Inter- put a hold following a bank bailout work on a project that will assist the national Monetary Fund (IMF), will in July. Finance and Economy Minis- government with public sector be available from January to be used ter Harold Lovell said the fund wants transformation, labour market poli- over a thirty-month period. It stipu- proof that government can repay cies and social protection. The pro- lates a mid-year budget review pro- the IMF loan and meet its commit- ject will be implemented over a cess as part of efforts to have more ment to ABI Bank, which received three-year period at an estimated accurate estimates. assistance in July this year. Govern- cost of US$20 million. The delega- ment has received more than half of tion will be meeting with a cross- “The goal of the project is to the EC$300 million (US$111 million) section of government officials to strengthen and modernize fiscal in- from the IMF since the arrangement finalise the project document. The stitutions so that the government took effect last year. mission ends December 16. can successfully implement a reform

programme with the aim of restor- * * * * * * Several weeks ago, governing fiscal sustainability,” a govern- 13 The Codrington Airstrip in Bar- Nibbs – the opposition ALP repre- ground. “I cannot say if it is in opera- buda has been re-authorized sentative for Barbuda Minister Man- tion, but it has been installed and tested,” Nibbs said. for night landings, according to

Minister Edmond Mansoor, thanks to As for the stray animals, the a $1.8 M injection of capital. ALP senator said although he re-

ceived such a "tongue lashing" in the In his contribution to the Upper House about the subject, as 2012 Budget Debate in the Senate, Dr recently, after the senate debate, Mansoor said the money had funded there were three dogs on the runway the overlaying, widening, and length- when he returned to Barbuda. ening of the runway.

“The pilot had to do a lot of He said it had also paid for braking and maneuvering to avoid remarking and lighting the strip. But hitting them,” Nibbs said, suggesting Barbuda ALP Senator Arthur Nibbs that there could be another break in rejected the two latter announce- Seen above Minister Mansoor and Senator Arthur Nibbs the fencing that allowed the animals ments, only confirming the installa- to get in. He went on to contradict tion of lights. soor said it was his urgent call for the the minister’s announcement about works that has hastened the pro- the lengthening and widening of the “The strip is still the same,” gress. airstrip. he said. Minister Mansoor had said,

“Our information from Mr Edward “I hope from this day on no “There has been no increase Gilkes from the Airport Authority has more stray dogs, sheep or goats, in terms of length or width to the advised us that 97 percent of the cattle or anything is there,” the min- strip,” Nibbs said. work has been completed. The run- ister said. way lights are serviceable and night In fact, he pointed out that operations are now permissible. And Senator Nibbs told Caribare- the work had actually levelled the we understand it is just some minor na.com on Tuesday that to the ad- overshoots on both ends of the run- painting to be done.” ministration's credit, the lighting on way, which does not constitute the runway has been completed. But lengthening. He said according to the Minister Mansoor noted that he could not speak to its actual com- report, to facilitate the landing of the notion presented by Senator Ar- missioning. Dash 8 aircrafts, the strip would have thur Nibbs of goats, sheep, and dogs had to be extended beyond the ex- roaming the runway is a thing of the Nibbs noted that the lights isting mangroves on one end and a past, with no need for young men to that were installed are frequency road on the other. chase the animals away before a lights that have to be activated from plane lands. inside the approaching aircraft. This * * * * * * means that the frequency to operate Speaking directly to Senator the lights must be transmitted to the approaching craft by workers on the

Government auctions through the Regional Government Exchange. $20 Million Securities Market, in a 180-day Treas- ury Bill issue. The minimum bid amount should be $5,000. Investors may participate in The issue will be a competitive uni- the auction through the services of a form price auction at a maximum in- broker dealer. The brokers in Antigua terest rate of 6.5 per cent. and Barbuda are ABI Bank and Anti- gua Commercial Bank. It will open for bidding on December 15 at 9:00 a.m. and close at 12:00 Additional information is available in noon. Settlement for successful bids the prospectus, which can be viewed will take place the following day. or downloaded at www.antigua.gov.ag, or After issue, the T-bill will be available www.ecseonline.com. The Government of Antigua and Bar- for trading on the secondary market buda is set to auction $20 million of the Eastern Caribbean Securities 12th December 2011 * * * * * *

Government Paid Utilities Ser- An estimated 500 senior citizens over  Non-Resident Ambassadors vices Revamped the age of 80 years are also eligible Persons appointed to the Most Dis- December 7, 2011 for Government-paid electricity and tinguished Order of the Nation

water services. The overall impact of introducing the The caps that will apply to the ser- caps on Government-paid utility ben- vices received by public servants and efits for civil servants, public officials, senior citizens are as follows: and senior citizens will be to reduce  $250.00 per month for electricity the financial impact on APUA. services; $50.00 per month for telephone ser- At present more than 700 civil serv- vices (this applies to the number of ants, senior citizens and public offi- units used and excludes the line rent- cials receive Government-paid utili- al charge); and Three thousand ties. The estimated annual cost of (3,000) gallons per month for water these services (water and electricity) services. without the caps is $5.2 million. Of this, $1.1 million represents the estimated annual cost of water and elec- Government has also established a tricity services consumed by parlia- Government will implement a re- set of caps for applying Government- mentarians and other public officials. vamped utilities policy in the upcom- paid utility services to past and pre- The remaining $4.1 million repre- ing year. This policy limits the value sent Parliamentarians and to certain sents the cost of water and electricity and volume of Government-paid util- categories of public officials that will services consumed by public servants ity services to eligible individuals and take effect from 1st January 2012. and senior citizens. is a part of Governments ongoing efforts to transform expenditure The first category of public officials With the caps in place there would management. will be eligible for fully paid electrici- be an approximate 45 percent reduc- ty, water and telephone services. tion or annual savings of about $2.4 Over the past year, the Ministry of This would apply to: million on electricity and water con- Finance has worked with the Antigua  The Governor General sumed by parliamentarians, other Public Utilities Authority (APUA) to  Persons appointed to the Most public officials, civil servants and sen- review and rationalise the list of ac- Exalted Order of National Hero ior citizens. counts that receive Government-paid Judges of the High Court utilities. “The cost of Government-paid utility The second category will be eligible services to taxpayers has been a The utilities policy takes effect this for Government-paid electricity up to matter of discussion at several of our month and will apply to civil serv- $1,500, three thousand gallons of consultations and meetings with the ants, public officials, and senior citi- water per month and fully paid local public and various private sector, civil zens. Among the senior civil servants telephone service. This would apply society and labour unions. Having and public officials eligible for one or to: considered their arguments and sug- more Government-paid utility ser-  Ministers gestions, we resolved to change the vices are school principals and depu-  Ministers of State manner in which this benefit is ad- ty principals, air traffic controllers, Parliamentary Secretaries ministered. While there has been consultant physicians, district nurses some delay in completing this exer- and midwives, and senior police The third category will be eligible for cise, the Government remained de- officers. Government-paid electricity up to termined to deliver on its commit-

$1,000, three thousand gallons of ment to develop and implement a Minister of Finance, Economy, and water per month, and fully paid local utilities policy.” The Finance Minister Public Administration Hon. Harold telephone service. This would apply said. Lovell said the process has revealed a to: number of anomalies and instances  Other Current Parliamentarians Any account that does not reconcile of abuse. and those who have served previous- with the Ministry’s records will be

ly for at least two (2) full terms in the removed from the Government “These are being addressed, and House of Representatives and the listing and may be subject to discon- with the tighter controls that form Senate nection by the APUA. part of this policy, we are confident  Magistrates that any opportunity for abuse will  Director of Public Prosecutions * * * * * * be significantly reduced.” Lovell said.  The Ombudsman 15

Pre-Arrival Notification been in Antigua since early Decem- val, store vessel characteristics and System To Launch In Antigua ber and have been busy training Cus- crew lists, easily add or update crew toms, Immigration and Port Authori- and passenger information and edit ty officials to be ready to facilitate or cancel notifications if travel plans clearance by E-SeaClear. change.

E-SeaClear is an advanced online It will also allow the operators to web service that makes it faster and view historical notifications, utilize easier to clear in and out of ports in stored information to easily create participating locations throughout new notifications and avoid writing the Caribbean. out declaration documents by hand. E-SeaClear will initially be available Vessel operators can store and sub- in three ports: English Harbour, Jolly E-SeaClear, the Caribbean Pre-Arrival mit declaration information elec- Harbour and Deep Water Harbour. Notification System, is expected to tronically, eliminating the need to fill be officially launched in Antigua in in declaration forms by hand at each 12th December 2011 early 2012. arrival port. * * * * * * Vessel operators will have the ability Representatives of E-SeaClear have to notify a country of a pending arri-

Plans Progressing For Antigua month of December, 220 yachts will owned by Mariacristina Rapisardi Sailing Week 2012 have arrived in the Caribbean via who has been on an epic adventure the 2012 Atlantic Rally for Cruisers with her Oyster 72 by the same (ARC). Strong participation in Anti- name. Over the past six years, Mari- gua Sailing Week is expected from acristina and her partner Giovanni the ARC fleet with some yachts al- Cristofori have explored the Arctic ready entered. They include a past and Antarctic, sailing thousands of winner, Spanish Swan 57 Charisma, miles between the two Polar Re- skippered by three-time Olympian gions. and Soling World Champion, Ma- nuel Doreste Blanco. Tanner Jones and his Antiguan crew on J/30 Blue Peter will be back and The 45th Antigua Sailing Week A number of other ARC boats have looking to go one better than last takes place at the end of April 2012 already entered including Diamonds year when they came a close se- and plans are well under way to are Forever (Girls for Sale), Great cond in Class 7. Blue Peter is one of make the longest running Caribbe- Escape of Southampton and Lance- the smallest entries in the regatta. an regatta an event not to be lot. There are many others on the missed. The notice of race has been ARC entry list who have participat- For 2012, there will be a fantastic published. ed in Antigua Sailing Week in previ- spectacle prior to the regatta. Anti-

ous years and so the organisers are gua Sailing Week is delighted to The Regatta Organising Committee hopeful they will be back again in announce the return of the has been hard at work planning 2012. With the ARC now behind Yachting World Round Antigua next year’s regatta and following an them, boats such as Coyote 2, EH01 Race, which will take place on Sat- overwhelmingly positive response and Northern Child, for example, urday, April 28, the day before Anti- from competitors regarding the will begin to look forward to their gua Sailing Week officially begins. It new courses and classes, Antigua Caribbean events calendar so it is will be open to all yachts, whether Sailing Week 2012 will once again anticipated that more entries will or not entered in Antigua Sailing strive to deliver challenging and soon be received. Week. The Farr-designed 115 foot, exciting racing. Sojana, which completed the race

Antigua Sailing Week attracts a in 4 hours, 37 minutes and 43 se- Antigua Sailing Week has always huge variety of yachts and people conds in 2009, holds the existing been popular with visitors from from the four corners of the world. Round Antigua Race record. overseas and Gold Sponsor Sunsail, One of the largest is Billy Budd. At has reported high levels of demand 112-feet, this magnificent yacht is * * * * * * for chartered bareboats. During the

16 PM Spencer Congratulates and Barbuda exceedingly proud and The country’s leader also had words National Football Team on I am personally exceptionally elat- of congratulations and appreciation FIFA World Cup Qualifier ed. There is no stopping now from to the thousands of nationals and further creating history,” said Prime residents who heeded the call to Victory Minister Spencer who was on hand come out and support the Antigua with the thousands of nationals and and Barbuda team. This he said is a residents at the converted Cricket demonstration that Antiguans and Stadium named after Antigua and Barbudans can rise to the occasion Barbuda National Hero Sir Vivian when we are called upon to act in Richards. the interest of our nation. “Our sup- Prime Minister the Hon. W. Baldwin port for the team I am sure boosted Spencer has sent a message of con- The country’s leader also congratu- their confidence and resulted in gratulations to the National Foot- lated the goal scorer striker Kerry victory. ball team on their victory on Friday “Arab” Skepple noting that his su- night against Haiti in a FIFA World perb delivery into the back of the “Congratulations must also go to Cup Qualifier at the Sir Vivian Rich- net propelled Antigua and Barbuda the Management and Coaching ards Cricket Stadium. into the History books, the first staff who worked tirelessly in pre-

time the team is advancing to a paring the team for the Haiti match. The Antigua and Barbuda team FIFA Semi-Finals round. Much harder work is ahead of you, scored the lone goal of the game to but all of Antigua and Barbuda advance to the Semi-Finals in Group “This historic goal will translate to stands ready to give you the moral A where they will meet Jamaica, maximum exposure for Antigua and support needed,” said Prime Minis- Guatemala and the USA in June of Barbuda when we meet the teams ter Spencer. 2012. Antigua and Barbuda in Group A in June of next year. This amassed 15 points in Group F hav- type of exposure for our country is It is estimated that over ten thou- ing played and won five matches. more than any tourism promotion sand Antiguans and Barbudans wit- The other teams in Group F are Hai- dollar can bring to our nation at a nessed the game at the Sir Vivian ti, Curacao and the US Virgin Is- time when our economy is strug- Richards Cricket Stadium on Friday lands. gling form the effects of a global night. It is said to be the largest “Congratulations to Team Antigua recession,” said Prime Minister crowd at any sporting event in Anti- Barbuda. You have made every Spencer. gua and Barbuda in recent history. man, woman and child in Antigua 12th November 2011 Another big win for Windies, 137. Aguilleira said the job is now to thumping three big sixes as the qualify for World Cup win the tournament. “We feel great Windies scored at briskly in the last to qualify for the World Cup. We 10 overs. wanted to achieve that goal and it In front of a large and vocal feels really good to make it. The home crowd, the Bangladesh side mission is not accomplished. We chased down the target, but ulti- performed well as a team, we stuck mately fell short with the West In- to the basics and I’m happy with the dies showing once again how strong direction this side is moving in,” she a side they are in the field. The said. Windies team allowed no ball to go

”We came to this event to un-chased and restricted the young West Indies made it four Bangladesh batters who struggled wins out of four to seal a spot in the play six matches, to qualify for the ICC Women’s World Cup final. against the athletic fielding and su- International Cricket Council’s Wom- perior West Indies bowling. Daley en’s World Cup 2013. Speaking after We’ve accomplished the qualifica- tion as part of our target, which was brilliant with her left-arm spin the victory, over Bangladesh in the taking 2-17 off her 10 overs to earn final qualifying match, captain feels fantastic and now it’s about the next two games and winning the the Player-of-the-Match award. The Merissa Aguilleira said the players best bowler was 15-year-old leg- were thrilled with their achieve- event.” spinner Shaquana Qunityne, who ment, which will now see them play On the field, opener Stafan- took 3-20 off 6.4 overs, her best in the marquee event in India. ie Taylor (62) and left-hander Shanel bowling figures since joining the They easily took care of Daley (61) put on 84 runs for the team in September. Aguilleira was business against the home side at second wicket which helped the full of praise for Daley’s perfor- the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. West Indies on their way to making mance with both bat and ball; and Windies made 217-8 off 50 overs a challenging score. Some poor also highlighted the efforts of and then dismissed the hosts for bowling saw Stacy-Ann King (24) Quintyne. 17 Ministry of Tourism says crick- extremely excited about the new stated that they have been playing et Festival a success accompaniments to the festival. together for over eight years and this contributed to their victory. On the Cricket side, defending Cham- Hutchinson has been coming to Anti- pions New York Masters, took a hit in gua for the past eight years and is the first match, while the Antigua looking forward to participating in Masters had an easy victory over the Fest next year. Barbados Masters. However, on Thursday, the climax of the day was The night ended with a prize giving when the Defending Champions ceremony; The Hon. Winston Wil- bounced back to defeat the Missis- liams - Minister of Sports, voiced The Ministry of Tourism under the sauga Ramblers by 7 wickets. The appreciation to the organizers of the guidance of the Hon. John Maginley, Antigua Masters however, were event and of course expressed Minister of Tourism, partnered with knocked out of the finals in the first heartiest congratulations to all the Richie Rich Sports & Leisure and Indi- semi—finals by New Jersey Masters teams for a ‘job well done’. Kenny go Events giving you masters, leg- with 5 wickets. The final game on Benjamin and Ridley Jacobs shared ends and ambassadors on and off Sunday, New Jersey Masters versus the podium presenting the trophies the field. This years 20/20 Masters New York Masters, gave the defend- to this year’s winners and runners Cricket Festival was a success! ing champions the opportunity to up. Tracy Guerrero of Indigo Events, retain their title and that was exactly one of the organizers of the Fest The fusion of cricket and music what they did. New York Masters are gave the final words, expressing her brought out locals and tourists alike taking home the championship once sincerest gratitude for all those who to enjoy the festivities. The exhibi- again. assisted in the behind the scenes tion matches were a great addition planning and organizing. to the fest giving the teams a chance In speaking with Austin Hutchinson, to see cricketing legends/greats such Captain of the New York Masters On behalf of Richie Rich Sports and as John Emburey, Tino Best, Vasbert team, after the prize giving on Sun- Leisure and Indigo Events she gave Drakes, Kenny Benjamin, Ridley Ja- day evening, he expressed his excite- sincere thanks to Minister Maginley cobs and Dave Joseph showcase ment for being victorious once again. and the Ministry of Tourism for com- their talent. The Climax of Saturday “Its great to win back to back cham- ing on board to partner in the event night was the legendary Third World pionship” stated Hutchinson. this year, to the sponsors and those performing live on stage playing hits who assisted after hits. The players this year were He gave credence to his team and * * ** * *

Film Festival Begins In Antigua actor Sashi Balooja, and one in film tions as well.” Deluxe Cinema was production by Yao Ramasar of Trini- one of the venues, where Caribbean- The Motion Picture Association of dad and Amber Chevaness of Jamaica content films were screened for the Antigua and Barbuda launched the on scriptwriting. The festival hosted public from 10 am until midnight for first annual Film Festival with a series 150 students from across the country an all-inclusive fee of EC $10 for one of workshops held at Townhouse at a Youth Day film production workday, or $15 for both days. MegaStore. shop at the Multipurpose Cultural Centre, conducted by the local, re- The festival was extended by a day, The first one, film makeup, was done gional and international film profes- to Monday, November 14, for the by Stacy Humphreys of Mingles Sa- sionals who came to Antigua for the express purpose of showing the work lon. The second one, which was festival. of visiting celebrity Bill Dukes, actor/ packed to capacity, was a camera and producer/director, who will be show- lighting workshop facilitiated by According to Bert Kirchner, president ing his film Dark Girls at 6 pm at filmmaker Shabier Kirchner of of the MPAAB, “Our main objective is Deluxe. That film will be followed by Wadadli Film Studios and Anderson to create a platform of excellence for Nauta by Italian/Antiguan Carlo Fal- Andrews, an independent filmmaker filmmaking in Antigua, and this first cone at 7:30 pm. A grand reception in Antigua. film festival is a step toward achiev- was held at the Copper and Lumber ing that goal. Store in English Harbour, where vis- The third workshop, on sound and iting celebrities mingled with local scoring, was led by Steve Jackson of The intention is to develop a cadre of dignitaries, business people and oth- Pelican Studios, a veteran in the professionals to work in the industry, er invited guests. sound and music production business not only supporting local production in Antigua. Workshops took place on but hopefully being able to attract For more information view: acting with American-based Antiguan some major international produc- www.antiguafilmfestival.com.

Successful Home, Families and competition and a poetry and re- In the poetry and research segment, Garden Festival search segment. The garden compe- the winners were Terry Benjamin Jr., tition had three categories – flower Terikiah (terry-key-ah) Benjamin and garden, fruits and vegetables and Nitchelle Strawn. For Barbuda, the landscape. top winners in the various categories were Cynthia Desuza, Eugenie Desu- In the flower garden segment, the za and Ivor Webber. Overall, the first place winners from the four three winners were Esther Josiah, zones were Esther Josiah, Francella Francella Henry and Eugene Desuza. Henry, Eunice Andrew and Candace Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary in Parker. the Ministry of Health and Social Transformation, Edson Joseph, who For the fruit and vegetable garden, spoke on behalf of Minister Wilmoth the top positions went to Rodrick Daniel, says participation is vital for Winners of the fourth annual Nicholas, Geraldine Bonnie, Mor- the success of the Homes Families Homes, Families and Gardens Festi- vette George and Foster Thomas. and Gardens Festival and for eco- val Competition were recently rec- In the landscaping section, Kenroy nomic development. ognized during a ceremony at the Smith and Francella Henry walked Multi-purpose Cultural Centre. away with the top individual prizes 19th December 2011 while Sea Breeze topped the Groups * * * * * * The competition, launched in May, and Organisations. included two aspects - a garden

GARD Centre Receives Dona- The funds will come from CIBC would be used specifically for the tion FirstCaribbean International Bank as training of young entrepreneurs, maintenance of a business men- toring programme micro financing and a Q & A service.

“CIBC FirstCaribbean remains committed to providing support for this programme and programmes like this across the Carib- bean,” he said. “We look forward to deepening our relationship with GARD as we work together to further develop this area of economic development that is so important to our country’s success.” Spencer presented the first year’s tranche of US $10,000 to Execu- tive Director of GARD Roberta Wil- a result of its US $340,000 contribu- Antigua and Barbuda, through the liams, who thanked CIBC tion to the Caribbean Association of Caribbean Youth Empowerment Pro- FirstCaribbean International Bank Youth Business Programmes, which gramme operated by the Gilbert Ag- for its ongoing commitment to the is to be disbursed over a three-year ricultural and Rural Development development of young people in period, a release from the bank said. Centre (GARD) is due to receive a US Antigua and Barbuda. Country Manager and Head of $30,000 injection over the next three years. Corporate Banking at CIBC 24th November 2011 FirstCaribbean International Bank Michael Spencer said the funds * * * * * *

Government Remains Com- financially and to ensure that they programme. mitted to National School benefit the children of Antigua and Meals and School Uniform Barbuda. In the words of our ven- However the Finance Min- erable Leader, “the School Uniform ister pointed out the effects of the Grant Programme Grants for children in primary and economic hardships being experi- secondary schools as well as the enced, has led the Government to National School Meals programme downsize the School Uniform will never be sacrificed.” Minister Grant Programme for want of ade- Lovell said. quate financing.

The Finance Minister said However rather than total- both programmes clearly demon- ly eliminate the School Uniform strates the United Progressive Par- Grant Programme, a decision was ty (UPP) People First Philosophy taken to scale back the programme

As part of an ongoing and has created a multiplier effect to one uniform per child. effort to support and uplift the with benefits to many. “This, Madame Speaker, was a very youth of our country, government hard decision to make. This year, will continue the School Uniform “We have been working unlike previous years when eligible Grant and the National School diligently to protect these two pro- students were given two regular Meals programme. grammes from the effects of the school uniforms, only one uniform economic crunch, and so far both was issued per child.” The Finance The announcement came continue to progress, with just one Minister said. from Minister of Finance, Economy, change to the School Uniform and Public Administration Hon. Grant Programme. We will contin- Between 2004 and 2010 Harold Lovell during his presenta- ue to review the School Meals Pro- Government paid out an estimated tion of the 2012 budget statement gramme to maximise the resources $18 million to meet the cost of on December 5th 2011. and minimise costs and wastage, providing uniforms for primary and and maintain quality.” He said. secondary school children in Anti- “This Administration has gua and Barbuda. A total of 36,411 spent over $21 million to provide Up to August 2011, some vouchers were issued at a cost of school meals and uniforms for our $2 million has been spent on the $3.08 million. school children. There were no meals provided to children and it is such programmes before we took estimated that by the end of the 6th December 2011 year over 400,000 meals will be office in 2004. We will continue to * * * * * * support these two programmes served through the school meals

Christmas Barrel Initiative and will not attract the Antigua from 1st December to 31st The Christmas Barrel Initiative for and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST). December 2011 the 2011 Yuletide season will begin However they will be subject to on December 1st and run till De- the 10 per cent Revenue Recovery cember 31st. Charge on the value of the con- tents, and an administrative charge The Initiative is designed to benefit of EC$10. families who require the assistance of relatives and friends overseas Items other than food, clothing with foodstuff, clothes and toilet- and toiletries will attract the nor- ries. mal duties and taxes.

Barrels will be free of import duty

UK Tourist Office- A List In- Six UK agents successfully made it The A-list agents were awarded centive Scheme Reports EC onto the A-list with bookings to with trophies, and prizes ranging $1Million in Sales Antigua hotels ranging from from places on Antigua familiariza- £24,286 to over £95,000 during tion trips, tickets to concerts and holiday gift vouchers.

Carrier’s A-list Agent, Vicki Hold- ing, said: “I never hesitate in rec- ommending the island to my cli- ents as there is something for eve- ryone and it is such a beautiful place. In my opinion some of the best hotels in the Caribbean are on Antigua, in terms of service, atten- tion to detail and facilities.

She said, “It is also great motiva- tion to sell Antigua, as we get such great support and incentives from the Tourist Board. I am so excited The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism about going to see and meet JLS in the period in which the scheme Authority’s UK Office Antigua A-list concert; this great prize has incen- ran. Agent bookings were report- incentive scheme closed off for tivised me to sell even more holi- ed from Devonshire, Newcastle, 2011, having tracked over days to Antigua!” Essex, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, £300,000 of reported sales to the Manchester and Torquay, notable destination. Holdings who recently, visited An- strong areas within the UK. tigua on an Antigua and Barbuda

UK Director of Tourism Hilary Mod- Tourism Authority UK luxury fam Modeste said the UK Office ex- este said, “We were quite im- trip thanked the tourist office for pects to continue the scheme in pressed by the sales figures report- the opportunity to visit the desti- 2012, “further increasing our in- ed.” Modeste noted that most of nation and remarked that, centives and marketing campaigns the bookings were group bookings. “Antigua has now become an easy to spur on travel agents to quickly He said: “Clearly based on its po- sell for me.” confirm large bookings, close sales tential to generate huge amounts and drive business to the destina- of revenue the group market The Antigua hotels that benefitted tion in the new-year.” would be considered as a key area from the major bookings included:

for focus for the UK office in 2012.” Cocobay, Sugar Ridge, Sandals The top agents came from, Carrier, The A-list incentive scheme Grande Antigua, Verandah, Galley Travel Counsellors, British Airways launched in June 2011 recognises Bay, Carlisle Bay and Jumby Bay. Holidays, Tropic Breeze, First agents who make and report book- Choice and The Co-operative Per- ings to the destination of over 28th November 2011 sonal Travel Advisors. £20,000. * * * * * * Prestigious magazines laud known destination in the world,” Barbuda Barbuda, a release said, was ranked among the top 10 Romantic island getaways from the Caribbe- Barbuda has received recognition an to the South Pacific. “If your from two prestigious publications. idea of Eden is unpaved roads, tru- Travel and Leisure Magazine de- ly deserted beaches, and nary a scribes the sister isle as one of the nightclub, this 68-square-mile is- most romantic destinations in the land in the Eastern Caribbean is for world, while Metro News in Van- you … Take a boat trip to the Frig- couver, portrayed it as a celebrity “remoteness” and “seclusion” as ate Bird Sanctuary on a lagoon in favourite. The country is deemed two of its unique selling points. the island’s northwest and ogle the the “icing shot” of the twin-island 5,000 namesake birds that call it package, which features Often cited as the “seventh least home,” the magazine article read.

Antigua and Barbuda High Commission, 2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP